Content of the Bombardier CL300 -type training classroom instruction and simulator training of artificial feel system operating principles

Pilots must be familiar with the operating principles of the artificial feel systems of the aircraft they fly, and be able to identify any differences therein. This is especially important because all artificial feel systems do not necessarily always proportionately adjust to the airspeed. In this particular aircraft type it is normal for the adjustment of the artificial feel system, according to the angle of the horizontal stabilizer, to consistently follow the airspeed as well. However, following the abnormal chain of events on the accident flight the stabilizer, due to a transient fault, remained at the takeoff setting. Consequently, the control forces provided by the artificial feel system also remained at the area of lighter control forces. Their training did not prepare the flight crew for the fact that, following the disengagement of the AP, the pitch control forces would be lighter than expected.

Safety Investigation Authority, Finland recommends that the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) call attention to the content of the type training classroom instruction and simulator training of artificial feel system operating principles, especially with regard to aircraft types in which the system does not directly adjust in relation to airspeed.

Pilots must be familiar with the operating principles of the artificial feel systems of the aircraft they fly, and be able to identify any differences therein. This is especially important because all artificial feel systems do not necessarily always proportionately adjust to the airspeed. In this particular aircraft type it is normal for the adjustment of the artificial feel system, according to the angle of the horizontal stabilizer, to consistently follow the airspeed as well. However, following the abnormal chain of events on the accident flight the stabilizer, due to a transient fault, remained at the takeoff setting. Consequently, the control forces provided by the artificial feel system also remained at the area of lighter control forces. Their training did not prepare the flight crew for the fact that, following the disengagement of the AP, the pitch control forces would be lighter than expected.